An old wives tale says bad news comes in threes. Well, this Boomer Grandma is up to four recent deaths of contemporaries. Robin Williams’ death was one of the four and ill health may have been a precipitating factor in his suicide. Grandpa and I discussed how we were fortunate to see him on stage in his last Broadway play and how extraordinary a talent he was. Someone we are close to met him personally and said he seemed troubled. He, like the other three, were men, and accomplished. The other three were acquaintances and friends, not close friends, but nevertheless, inspire reflection and contemplation of mortality in this Boomer Grandma.
I have heard that the mid to late 60’s is a dangerous time for illness leading to death and, if we survive this age period, we are safe until the mid 70’s. As I am near the end of this danger period, unlike with other topics, I do not want to search the internet for studies to see if it is true or not.
Grandpa and I take these deaths of contemporaries as an impetus to get moving. Yes, moving as in exercise, but the best fun exercise is walking in new places around the world that we have not yet visited.
Uncharacteristically for a long in advance planner, this Grandma put together a trip to Spain and Portugal in less than three months. It included walking an average of three miles a day in beautiful and historic cities. An added bonus to the exercise part, if you can call it that, was that most of the six cities were built on hills. Coming from sea level Florida, that is a physical challenge.
Taking a break from daily routine and adding adventure and excitement to life helps to keep us “forever young.” As a favorite aunt said, do not wait until you are 65 to travel. One never knows how much time one has left. One never knows when good health will be a memory.
Whether it is a place close to home or around the globe, think about planning a journey. The planning itself adds enjoyment to life. Whether you can go now or later, this Grandma recommends you start thinking about the next place you would like to visit. Tripadvisor is a good place to start. This web article about the top 25 landmarks in the world jump started our interest for our immediate trip to the Alhambra de Granada and Mezquita de Cordoba.
Remember Tripadvisor’s number one world landmark, Machu Picchu, is physically challenging and should be done before or at least during “young old.” It is at 8,000 feet, usually combined with Cusco, which is at an even higher altitude. Peru is beginning to limit tourism to the site, and has put conditions upon visit to Machu Picchu. If you were ever interested in seeing this UNESCO World Heritage site, begin your planning now as to when you can make this happen. We went in the month of October with Orient Express, as they own the only hotel (more expensive and less attractive than others in the area) on the top of the mountain, where you should stay to see Machu Picchu in the early morning and evening when the crowds of tourists are not on the mountain, and Orient Express owns the railroad to Machu Picchu. www.orient-express.com. Those adventurous types can hike the Inca Trail.
We found even the luxurious Orient Express tour we chose was strenuous. One must be mindful of the rainy season as set forth on U.S.A. Today, on line:
The average temperatures range between 50 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit with only slight variations throughout the year. The subtropical region has an annual rainy and dry season, but Machu Picchu is almost always surrounded by fog in any weather. November to April is the rainy season, although daily short showers are common most times of the year. Peak tourist season corresponds with the dry season in July and August when the nights are cool and the days are generally dry. January and February are the rainiest months, and many people visit the area in November and April to avoid the heaviest crowds.
If the top 25 landmarks in the world do not grab your interest, try looking at the Tripadvisor list of the top 25 destinations in the world.
And if you are one of those cautious about world events now, see how many of the Tripadvisor top 25 U.S. destinations spark interest.
Life is short. We see that when our contemporaries start leaving us. This Grandma says don’t wait until later for more
Joy,
Mema
Comentários